In this episode, learn how Lauren pivoted her career goals from becoming a therapist to working with robots, thanks to a fateful conversation with a professor during her Master’s studies. Now, Lauren is the Academic Chair for Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence at the School for Advanced Digital Technology at SAIT. She articulates the requirement to get students familiar with tech to ensure they are career-ready and dives deep into the impact of AI on society and people. This episode will...
Apr 06, 2023•54 min•Ep. 330
In this episode, learn about the Alberta Cancer Foundation from its CEO, Wendy Beauchesne. Wendy’s career spans decades in health, deploying hundreds of millions of capital into transformational campaigns, and she’s thrilled to bring her expertise to her CEO role. Wendy shares the optimistic stories of how the Alberta Cancer Foundation supports Albertans across the province in the face of a cancer diagnosis and some of the positive changes to the expected quality of life, thanks to innovative re...
Apr 04, 2023•52 min•Ep. 329
In this episode, Geri Greenall, CFO of Spartan Delta Corp. and EPAC board member, shares her insights on how the energy industry can showcase its positive impact on communities. Geri is leading an initiative to encourage energy companies to partner with Classroom Champions and provide financial support to drive positive change in the rural classrooms where energy workers live and raise their families. By forming local partnerships, the energy industry proactively addresses negative perceptions a...
Mar 30, 2023•31 min•Ep. 328
In this episode, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Givesome, Jay Whitelaw, explains the power of being allowed to see the real difference generosity and giving can make. Jay shares the a-ha moment he experienced while teaching in Namibia that helped him realize what’s missing from the generosity journey - seeing the impact. He explains how generosity can be crucial to employee and customer engagement and the ins and outs of the Givesome platform, including the advanced metrics and data that c...
Mar 28, 2023•48 min•Ep. 327
In this episode, we chat about event management with Sheri Moore, Partner and Creative Director at Moore Carlyle Consulting & MCC Destination Management. Sheri is a self-proclaimed “event geek” and an original founder of the renowned mesh conference. After taking some time off, mesh is now bringing the conference to Western Canada, and Sheri gives us an inside look at what goes into planning an event of this magnitude. You’ll gain valuable insights from Sheri’s experience in the industry and...
Mar 23, 2023•40 min•Ep. 326
In this episode, hear from ViVent Bioprocesses Co-Founders Troy Temple and Griffin Smith, who share their valuable experience of building their start-up with the support of Avatar Innovations. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, their insights and advice will resonate with you. They discuss everything from understanding your intention in building a business or product to the need to have multiple horses in the race. This enlightening conversation provides valuable...
Mar 21, 2023•48 min•Ep. 325
In this episode, dive into the cutting-edge ways that Thin Air Labs supports Alberta’s thriving innovation ecosystem. It’s no secret that our province needs a tailored approach that isn’t simply a replica of the Bay Area or Toronto. We’re joined by Andrew Browne, Partner and Funding Catalyst Lead at Thin Air Labs, to shed some light on this topic. Andrew’s background as an entrepreneur and funding expert gives him a unique perspective, and he explains how Thin Air Labs is shaking up the traditio...
Mar 16, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 324
In this episode, you’ll be reminded about the joys of recess and play with PlayCity Founder & CEO, Hafiz Mitha. After exiting a role and moving back to Calgary, Hafiz stared at tennis courts outside of his condo day after day, pining for a partner to play with. But he didn’t know anyone and felt some anxiety about showing up and standing around, hoping someone might play tennis with him. Around the same time, dating apps were incredibly popular, which sparked Hafiz’s idea - instead of matchi...
Mar 14, 2023•46 min•Ep. 323
In this episode, learn how four friends in a basement created a business based on the idea that sustainability should be easier, not harder. Alex Todorovic, CEO of Arbor, explains how they leverage first-party and shared data to help companies map out their supply chain and emissions so they can greet changing regulations with a game plan to be compliant. Alex will help you understand the complex realities of environmental management through the lens of data, particularly in our globally connect...
Mar 09, 2023•47 min•Ep. 322
In this episode, get an insider’s look at product development with Katie Underwood, Product Traction Lead at Thin Air Labs. She explains how Thin Air Labs is purpose-built to help start-ups grow — whether they’re already enjoying in-market success and need a little push or a scrappy start-up that needs to de-risk product ideas before anything gets built. You’ll understand how product managers fit into Western Canada’s start-up boom and how an obsession with the right thing for the right customer...
Mar 07, 2023•49 min•Ep. 321
In this episode, the President of Sabi Mind, Philippe Lucas, shares insights on a common analgesic’s potential in treating mental health issues. He explains how it can help reduce trauma responses, suicidal ideation, anxiety, lack of connectedness, and depression. Sabi Mind is expanding from Calgary to Edmonton and Victoria to provide access to communities with limited exposure to psychedelic medicine. You’ll learn about ketamine’s therapeutic effects in a clinical setting, Sabi Mind’s innovativ...
Mar 02, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 320
Join us for the first episode in Sustainable Matters and learn about emissions management with Jessica Shumlich, CEO and Co-Founder of Highwood Emissions Management. Jessica, a trained engineer, brings a wealth of experience from working in heavy industry in North America and Europe, which has contributed to her holistic expertise in greenhouse gas emissions management. As Western Canada aims to balance the imperative need to achieve our ESG goals with a license to grow, telling the positive sto...
Feb 28, 2023•40 min•Ep. 319
In this episode, hear from Wilson Acton about the first exciting year of building Tall Grass Ventures, a fund he co-created in 2022 to fill the pre-series funding gap while helping founders address their specific challenges in building better businesses. Wilson shares how Tall Grass went from just starting in April 2022 to operating a $20M fund with significant demand, despite softening markets. Wilson also highlights how AgTech can play in future industries, from aviation to cattle production a...
Feb 23, 2023•40 min•Ep. 318
In this episode, discover the insights of Pascal St-Jean, President at 3iQ Corporation, as he explores the exciting world of digital assets. 3iQ is a leading innovator in the financial industry and was one of the first companies to work directly with regulators to bring secure, quality financial products to institutional and retail investors in a safe, efficient way. Join Pascal as he highlights the similarities between the early days of the internet and the current digital asset landscape. He b...
Feb 21, 2023•55 min•Ep. 317
In this episode, join us as we delve into the exciting virtual and augmented reality world with the Co-Founders of Red Iron Labs, Rosalinda Hernandez and Lloyd Summers. They share their journey from a gaming company leveraging virtual and augmented reality to a pivot to help other industries unlock their potential. Explore the possibilities and limits of this cutting-edge technology, learn about the innovative use cases developed by Red Iron Labs, and get a glimpse into the future of this captiv...
Feb 16, 2023•58 min•Ep. 316
In this episode, hear from Matthew Burgoyne, Partner at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP. Learn all about the legalities of cryptocurrencies and how Matthew used marketing techniques to become a sought-after crypto expert with the nickname “Bitcoin Burgoyne.” Matthew first gained interest in the intersection of law and non-FIAT currencies during the Occupy Wall Street crisis of 2008, when trust plummeted in traditional systems. By 2013, Matthew knew he had to build his client base to make Partne...
Feb 14, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 315
In recent decades, Bruce has observed a change in product development in Alberta. The entrepreneurial province has moved away from traditional methods and embraced the Lean Startup approach. This iterative method allows for failure, giving companies that use it a cultural advantage. Bruce also shares four straightforward product development questions he has distilled throughout his career. These questions will help you identify your next opportunity and give you an understanding of what it takes...
Feb 09, 2023•53 min•Ep. 314
Every business must have three elements for success: a problem to solve, a product to address it, and people to bring it all to life. However, many businesses offer what they think the customer needs rather than what they know they need. Will reveals how technology can assist home builders in gaining a precise comprehension of each customer’s individual motivations, psychology, and requirements, leading to robust products and people. As technology continues its rapid progression, these insights ...
Feb 07, 2023•52 min•Ep. 313
Aviation has a 120-year history, while drones have only been around for 60 years, with just 30 years of commercial use. The rapid advancement of drone technology is exciting, and the possibilities for its various applications are even more thrilling. Jordon shares what Aerium is building, including a robotic bird drone that flaps its wings. He also discusses how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are helping to advance drones to perform more complex tasks, and how Aerium has built a te...
Feb 02, 2023•41 min•Ep. 312
Since 2014, the energy sector has undergone significant changes. Many workers moved on to new opportunities, but those who stayed had a stronger position due to increased demand for energy security, higher commodity prices, and relentless innovation. Furthermore, a significant decrease in energy exploration and production companies occurred, moving from around 450 in 2010 to 135 in 2022, leading to greater profitability and less competition. Despite concerns about peak oil and the need to priori...
Jan 31, 2023•46 min•Ep. 311
As Linestar’s business expands from a local to a national level, CEO Brian embraces the challenge with determination. With a deep understanding of the utility industry and confidence in Linestar’s offerings, he has expertly navigated strategic partnerships to stay ahead of the competition in this rapidly evolving field. Learn the strategies and tactics Brian has employed to establish Linestar as a formidable player in the national utility market.
Jan 26, 2023•46 min•Ep. 310
Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly evolving technology that has the potential to transform various aspects of our daily lives, from data analysis to emotional support and entertainment. It has already begun to make our lives more convenient and efficient. Kwame understands the potential and limitations of AI and is dedicated to helping organizations make the most of AI by providing innovative solutions that can help businesses improve their data analysis capabilities and stay ahead of the curv...
Jan 24, 2023•59 min•Ep. 309
Join Jasmine as she takes you on a fascinating journey through the streets of cities worldwide, including Detroit. She explains firsthand how our efforts to build strong communities often fall short and teaches us how to avoid the same mistakes in our city. Discover how Jasmine is leading the charge to reduce risk, prototype solutions, and empower citizens to control their futures. But that’s not all - Jasmine also reveals how fear of failure can hold us back from creating truly world-class citi...
Jan 19, 2023•46 min•Ep. 308
What if we could reimagine the way people get to and from work, bring their skis from the chalet to the slopes, or golf clubs from the resort to the green? It might look like Lyric Cycle, a Calgary-based start-up prototyping electric transportation that can be purpose-built for many different situations. Andrew and Andi are passionate about bringing sustainable transportation to people around the world and are bootstrapping and pitching their way to make it a reality. Get informed about the real...
Jan 17, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 307
Brent’s life is a testament to the power of combining passion with purpose. As a successful entrepreneur with interests in a wide range of industries, Brent could easily live a life of luxury and excess. But instead, he has chosen to lead a simplified life and use his businesses as a force for good. From automotive and aviation to charity and construction, Brent’s diverse portfolio of businesses is a reflection of his many passions. But what sets Brent apart is his commitment to using his succes...
Jan 12, 2023•52 min•Ep. 306
Evan may not be passionate about only one thing, but his love for hockey is undeniable. As a die-hard fan, Evan knows firsthand the frustration of missing crucial moments of the game while waiting in line for concessions. This passion led him to co-found Ordr. Since its inception, Ordr has exploded in popularity, with NBA and MLB franchises and venue owners clamouring for the opportunity to provide their fans with a premium experience. In this engaging conversation, Evan shares the journey of bu...
Jan 10, 2023•55 min•Ep. 305
From tax deferral techniques, protecting yourself when incorporating, and avoiding a dreaded audit, Faisel brings plenty of insider information about the realities of taxation, finances and corporations. He will help you understand the importance of how to navigate these complex topics and find the appropriate partners with the right knowledge to ensure your wealth and business are profitable and protected across the board.
Jan 05, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 304
David has seen medicine’s shift in views on psychedelics. In the past, many practitioners were nervous to even consider using these substances in treatment, but now, Alberta is leading the way in exploring their potential benefits in a clinical setting. However, a lack of trained therapists and professionals to serve this industry has been a challenge. ATMA has taken a holistic and individualized approach to clinical trials, prioritizing the needs and experiences of each patient. This approach i...
Dec 20, 2022•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 303
Get ready to be inspired by Avatar Innovations, the game-changing company that is de-risking technology investments to create a brighter future for the world’s energy sector. Through their Ignite, Studio, and Venture programs, Avatar has already developed 30 new technologies – with two of them even becoming finalists in the prestigious XPRIZE competition. Avatar is committed to ensuring that Calgary is recognized in both the energy industry and the crucial energy transition. With the support of ...
Dec 15, 2022•41 min•Ep. 302
Sustainable development is the key to creating a brighter future for all. By meeting today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same, we can build a better world. In this episode, Carol Ann explores the challenges and opportunities in Alberta’s energy sector and offers inspiration for taking action on the climate crisis. Whether you’re a climate advocate or simply interested in the future of energy, this episode will help you discover how to help create a sust...
Dec 13, 2022•56 min•Ep. 301
